Embark on an epic day hike to Cerro Pedernal, a major landmark in north-central New Mexico. A prominent feature in the Abiquiu area, Georgia O’Keeffe said of the Cerro Pedernal, “God told me if I painted it often enough I could have it.”
Affectionately known these days as O’Keeffe’s mountain, it is a place of remarkable beauty. The area also has a rich history dating back to the Clovis Paleoindians. These ancient people used Pedernal chert to produce spear points and other tools.
Santa Fe Mountain Adventures is one of the few commercial outfitters to have a permit for Cerro Pedernal. It is a full day private epic day hike for fearless adventurers wishing to scale O’Keeffe’s mountain.
Take a hike down White Rock Canyon – enjoy spectacular views and locate petroglyphs along the Rio Grande.
The Red Dot trail, or the Pajarito Springs Trail, drops down 800 feet to the renown Rio Grande. Along the steep trail, you will encounter petroglyphs, including one of a jaguar. Once at the bottom, stop and relax by an absolutely delightful waterfall and small pool. Continue along the River Trail and return the same way or take a longer hike up the Blue Dot Trail.
Time permitting, wander off the main path and explore Newspaper Rock. You will be able to view more striking Rio Grande petroglyphs left in the basalt rocks by the Ancient Puebloans.
